END OF THE LINE
With injuries mounting, Rockets win streak ends at 14
Dec 21, 2017, 6:15 am
James Harden's big game was not enough for the depleted Rockets. Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
With 8 games in 13 days and injuries mounting, the Houston Rockets’ winning streak ended at 14 after surrendering a loss Wednesday night to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Much like Monday’s game against the Utah Jazz, the visiting Lakers led throughout the majority of the game, due largely in part to a career high 38 points from rookie Kyle Kuzma. Former Rocket Corey Brewer followed in scoring with 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals. Fellow rookie Lonzo Ball added 16 points and 9 rebounds.
The game remained close largely in part due to James Harden’s 30 point first half. But unlike most every other game during the winning streak, the now-expected scoring outburst never materialized. It could be a result of mounting injuries, as starting center Clint Capela was out for the game, and starting point guard Chris Paul left with a left abductor strain.
Harden finished the game with 51 points and 9 assists. Eric Gordon contributed 21 from the bench. Trevor Ariza added 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 steals.
The 14-game winning streak win streak ends as the fourth largest in franchise history. Harden’s 51-point outing marks the second time this season scoring more than 50, and extends his season-long streak of scoring 20 or more points to 30 consecutive games.
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